Wilfredo Rivera, 86, passed away on Sunday, February 1, 2026, at his residence in North Plainfield, New Jersey.

Born on May 29, 1939, in Arecibo, Puerto Rico, Wilfredo was raised there before moving to the mainland United States, eventually settling in New Jersey. He lived for many years in Newark before later residing in North Plainfield. He built a life centered on family, steady work, and simple pleasures.

Wilfredo was employed in maintenance with Rio Realty in Newark, where he was known as a dependable and hardworking presence. He took pride in staying active and useful through his work.

He enjoyed watching baseball and softball and was a fan of classic western movies, which brought him many relaxing and happy hours.

Wilfredo was predeceased by his parents, Florentino Rivera and Margarita Nieves Goico. He is survived by his beloved wife, Mercedes Rivera; his children, Margarita Vazquez and her husband John Vazquez, and Wilfredo Rivera Jr. and his wife Carmen Iris Rivera; his grandchildren, Dorien Quiles and her husband Musa Sackoon, and Brittney Rivera-Harris and her husband DeAndre Harris; and his great-grandchildren, Aria B. Sackoon and Mateo Sackoon.

Services were private. Arrangements were entrusted to Higgins Home for Funerals.